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When we wanted a Mini Cooper with a bit more space in the past, we could have the Countryman, which solved the space problem but changed the Cooper’s attitude entirely, and while the slightly longer Cooper 5-Door offered marginally more room, it still felt a tad tight in the rear, and, in my view, never looked quite as good as its 2-door counterpart. The new Aceman SE is set to address those issues, landing neatly between those extremes, giving us a more practical Mini with lovely proportions and an extra splash of Mini style.
And it certainly is stylish. Our test car’s vivid orange paint immediately catches the eye, popping against its compact, sharply defined proportions. The exterior brings with it a more minimalist evolution compared with previous Minis: crisp lines, a clean roofline, and a purposeful stance that signals modernity without losing the brand’s playful DNA. It’s distinctly Mini, yet refined, turning heads without needing to shout.
There is a minimalist approach to the interior design as well. Step inside, and the Aceman impresses, even with fewer embellishments; it’s buzzing with its modern layout and sturdy build quality that reinforces the Aceman’s character and even amps up the original Mini’s charm with its large circular display.
That circular central display is certainly a striking centerpiece: vividly rendered, highly responsive, and visually unique. While the interface isn’t effortless, physical buttons and tactile switches still trump touchscreens in some scenarios, it remains one of the most usable and attractive infotainment setups on the market with plenty of playful flourishes to delight. Ambient projector lights add some extra visual flair, while the seats, finished in fabric and vegan leather, are comfortable, supportive, and thoughtfully detailed, giving the cabin plenty of personality.
Practicality, though, is mixed. The boot is decent for its size, fine for groceries or a weekend trip, but it can’t quite match the versatility of its larger Countryman sibling. Yet this compromise feels acceptable given the Aceman’s more compact footprint.
On the road, the Aceman SE is a curious balance of fun and refinement. Being fully electric, acceleration is smooth and instant, though it’s more polished response than punchy thrill. You feel the torque immediately, but it’s not a dramatic surge, if you want a bit more bite, the cheeky JCW version awaits.
Steering is precise but could offer more feedback, especially when turning in. The suspension sits on the firmer side, keeping body roll in check but letting bumps through more clearly. In the city, the compact dimensions, instant response, and tight turning radius make light work of traffic, while regenerative braking is calibrated well enough for smooth single-pedal driving. Out on the highway, it cruises stably and quietly, with a youthful edge to the ride, though the absence of a traditional engine note may leave petrol enthusiasts wishing for more drama. Its EV-only nature certainly marks a clear shift for Mini loyalists: some will miss the growl of combustion, while others will appreciate the instant torque, hushed cabin, and reduced environmental footprint. Still, the low centre of gravity and playful handling give it a character that feels unmistakable to the brand.
Range-wise, the Aceman SE manages around 406–407 km in WLTP testing, translating to around 320–350 km in local conditions, enough for daily commuting and short weekend trips, though longer journeys might require additional planning.
Pricing in Singapore positions the Aceman SE at S$252,888, placing it in a premium segment alongside rivals like the BMW iX1 and Volvo EX30. While it’s more expensive than some alternatives, the Aceman SE combines electric efficiency and compact cheekiness with iconic Mini aesthetics and driving character, making it an interesting option for buyers who value design and character over outright practicalities.
Ultimately, the Aceman SE knows what it is. It’s not the most powerful, nor the roomiest, nor the cheapest, but it finally gives those of us who wanted a slightly more spacious Mini a proper option without sacrificing style or character. Earning its place among Singapore’s premium electric compact SUVs.
